A bloody communal conflict between the Mambilla and Fulani herders has left over 1,000 persons, mostly women and children, displaced in Taraba State. The conflict, which occurred across Geroji settlements, Mbamnga ward, Sardauna Local Government Area, has resulted in the destruction of 340 houses. The victims have fled to neighbouring Republic of Cameroon and nearby communities for shelter.
The conflict, which lasted for about three days from September 16th, 2026, has also resulted in the destruction of tonnes of foodstuff and other means of livelihood. A community leader, Ardo Bashiru, disclosed that several families are facing a serious humanitarian crisis, with the rainy season taking its toll on the affected population. Bashiru appealed for urgent intervention from governments, individuals, and humanitarian agencies.
The Chairman of Sardauna Local Government Area, Alhaji Mohammed Umar, confirmed the incident and warned that anyone found disturbing the peaceful coexistence enjoyed by the residents would meet the full wrath of the law. He disclosed that the state government has facilitated the full deployment of security forces to the trouble areas. Arrangements have been completed for the repatriation of refugees who fled to Nyang, Donga-Mantung Division located in the Northwest part of Cameroon.
The conflict started from a fight between two individuals, a Mambilla woman and Fulani man on the farm. Chief of Mbamnga, Alhaji Abubakar Saleh, appealed for calm and called for unity among the people. He assured that all hands are on deck to ensure that such conflicts do not happen again. Similar violence took place across the Mambilla Plateau in 2017 and 2018.
In a separate incident, troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY), foiled two separate abduction attempts and rescued 10 victims in different locations across Zamfara State. The troops received information that terrorists had abducted villagers at Kade Daba Village, Kanoma District, and swiftly mobilised to the location.
The Theatre Commander, JTF NW OPFY, commended the troops for their vigilance, swift response, and professionalism in protecting citizens. He reaffirmed the resolve of JTF NW OPFY to sustain offensive operations against terrorists and deny them the freedom to operate across the North West.
The affected settlements include Wuro Buba, Wuro Ardo Bashiru, Wuro wakili Idrisa, Wuro saleh Petel, Wuro Hassan Jaji, Wuro Alhaji Jibo, Wuro Alhaji Manu, and Wuro Mbarkal. The victims have lost everything in the ensuing conflict, leaving them with no shelter, no food, and no clothing.
Key points
- Over 1,000 persons displaced
- 340 houses burnt
- Conflict started from a fight between two individuals
